Understanding how small cell lung cancer spreads

Unraveling Metastasis Drivers in Small Cell Lung Cancer via Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Based Approach

NIH-funded research University of Chicago · NIH-11111783

This study is looking at how small cell lung cancer spreads aggressively by creating special lung cells from human stem cells, so researchers can better understand what makes the cancer grow and spread, helping to improve treatment for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11111783 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind the aggressive spread of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) using advanced techniques. By creating lung cells from human stem cells that mimic SCLC, researchers can study how these cells behave and metastasize in a controlled environment. The project combines innovative models, including patient-derived samples and cutting-edge sequencing technologies, to explore the cellular and molecular factors that drive metastasis in SCLC. This approach aims to provide deeper insights into the disease and its progression.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with small cell lung cancer, particularly those experiencing aggressive disease progression.

Not a fit: Patients with non-small cell lung cancer or those without a diagnosis of lung cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating the aggressive spread of small cell lung cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using stem cell models to study cancer metastasis, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions anti-cancer research
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.